The grooming process is an important part of the day for cats and most are able to keep themselves very clean without a bath. Unless there is a medical need to, you do not need to bath your cat, but you can if you would like to. For some cats bathing assists to keep the coat clean, reduce parasite infections and can make life easier for those people who are allergic to cats.

Tips on bathing your cat...

To reduce anxiety, it's a good idea to bathe your cat from a young age so they become accustomed to the process. Some cats dislike being bathed so we recommend you have an extra set of helping hands to keep your cat as relaxed as possible. Also brush their coat before bathing, this makes brushing afterwards much easier.

Fill a bowl with warm water (about 10cm deep) and test the water temperature to make sure it is warm not hot.

Hold your cat firmly whilst gently placing them in the water.

Mix a little cat shampoo with warm water and using a jug pour it over the cat from their neck to their tail. Always use a shampoo that is made for cats, their skin's pH is different from ours, so even the mildest human shampoo can cause coat problems. Also, avoid tipping water near their ears and eyes and if your cat will allow you, place some cotton wool in his/her ears.

Gently massage the shampoo into the coat.

Rinse your cat with fresh water

Wrap them in a large towel to dry off.

If your cat allows you, use a hair dryer to further dry their coat, being careful that the temperature is warm not hot.

If you are unsure about whether or not to bath your cat, ask our veterinary healthcare team for more information.

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